The trendiest hangout spot in New York City isn’t a club or a restaurant, but rather a parking lot next to a bar in Chinatown. Time Again, located at the corner of Canal and Forsyth, quickly became one of Manhattan’s most popular spots after opening in late May. The outdoor seating area allows a diverse crowd of regular patrons and celebrities to gather around the small establishment. The location of Time Again provides a view of various New York City landmarks and activities, creating a unique and lively atmosphere.
The scene at Time Again is described as fun and reminiscent of a Parisian bar by patrons like Laine Habony, a ballet dancer. The bar sits across from the Manhattan Bridge exit ramp and is surrounded by trendy neighborhoods such as Two Bridges and Dimes Square. Visitors to the bar can enjoy natural wine and take in the atmosphere of the diverse neighborhood surrounding the establishment. The lack of table service and the unusual location of the bar adds to its appeal as a laid-back and unique destination for locals and tourists alike.
Time Again has attracted an eclectic crowd throughout the summer, including creatives, celebrities like Joe Jonas and Lil Yachty, and visitors seeking a vibrant and experiential night out. The venue typically hosts an outdoor scene, where patrons gather before sunset and stay late into the night, enjoying food from various pop-up vendors and refreshing drinks from the cocktail window. While some seating is available indoors, many patrons prefer the colorful plastic stools outside, offering a communal and lively experience.
The bar’s location in a parking lot near a variety of local amenities and attractions adds to its charm and appeal. The unpretentious atmosphere, diverse crowd, and quirky setting make it a unique and welcoming spot in the city. Time Again has evolved from previous iterations as an Omakase restaurant and a coffee shop and is now run by Alec “Despot” Reinstein, a rapper, and music executive, and Nick Poe, an architectural designer. The bar’s natural wine selection and vibrant atmosphere have made it a standout destination in the city’s nightlife scene.
Despite some complaints from neighbors about the large crowds, Time Again has become increasingly popular and sought after by those looking for a unique and diverse social experience. Patrons appreciate the inclusivity and welcoming vibe of the bar, as well as the surprising juxtaposition of high-quality food and drinks in a casual outdoor setting. The continued success of Time Again may depend on the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, such as the arrival of colder weather, but patrons hope the bar will maintain its lively, welcoming atmosphere throughout the seasons.
The appeal of Time Again lies not only in its trendy setting and diverse crowd but also in its ability to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere in the heart of New York City. As winter approaches, concerns about the future of the outdoor crowds are raised, but patrons and visitors alike hope the bar will continue to thrive and offer a unique social experience. Despite potential challenges, Time Again represents a beacon of creativity, diversity, and community in a city known for its vibrant nightlife and social scene.
